Improving Infrastructure and Mass Transit Accessibility

• Senator Sweeney, Assemblyman Burzichelli, and Assemblyman Taliaferro strongly supported the implementation of a new law that will renew the Transportation Trust Fund and dedicate $16 billion in funding over eight years to meet the State’s critical infrastructure needs. The plan will provide the most significant investment in the fund since it was created, allowing for innovative initiatives that will develop South Jersey’s transportation network through light rail, New Jersey Transit expansion, and restoring our road system. The three legislators insisted that the new TTF program double State funding for county and municipal roads in order to hold down property taxes.
  
• Furthermore, all three members also strongly supported a constitutional amendment mandating that 100% of the money raised through funding sources be dedicated to the TTF, and not redirected to the general fund, guaranteeing that these funds go where they are needed most. That amendment was approved by New Jersey voters in November of 2016.
  
• Senator Sweeney continues to work to bring light rail service to various municipalities along the Glassboro – Camden corridor. This project would provide greater convenience to students and working professionals alike by reducing congestion on the roads. Light Rail will promote smart growth and transit-oriented development by improving the connection between our world-class academic institutions and business and entertainment centers. Public transit is a key focus of our region’s growth and a major element of a renewed Transportation Trust Fund.
  
• Senator Sweeney also led the fight to add $50 million to the New Jersey Transit budget this year to guarantee that the agency would have sufficient funding to improve the quality of bus service and maintain the resumption of rail operations on the Atlantic City Line. He is also pushing for the Port Authority to take over and expand operations at Atlantic City Airport.